A network of zebra crossings is being rolled out in key areas next to schools in Sheffield to give children a safer journey home.

They are planned for Dyche Lane outside Meadowhall school and on Monckton Road, which will offer a crossing to pupils of the Hinde House 2-16 school.

Sheffield City Council approved the plan in a finance meeting in April.

Kevin Elliott, School Business Manager for Meadowhead, said: “We have on a number of occasions witnessed student accidents.

“The school currently has 1930 students, the majority of whom will have to cross Dyche Lane to enter the main school gates. This is a busy road with footfall increased since the introduction of the St James Retail Park.” he added.

“The new crossings will make a huge difference to the safety of all students and families and it will help generate better safety both for pedestrians and motor vehicle users.”

The Finance Committee said the new footpaths “promote healthier lifestyles whilst encouraging vibrancy in local areas and supports access to public transport.”

The Dyche Lane crossing provides children and parents with a much safer route, with the previous closest footpath being a busy junction at the Jordanthorpe Parkway, a walk that takes over ten minutes from the school gates.

The council is spending £205,433 of the Local and Neighbourhood Transport Complementary Programme.

The new Monckton Road crossing will cost £187,697. 

Plans also include a crossing from Shiregreen Lane, a residential neighbourhood with schools, pharmacies and housing surrounding it. 

Belisha beacons will also be installed in an effort that “encourages drivers to stop for pedestrians to cross”, by providing a reduction in driver speed.

The proposal would see it built directly onto the walking route,which helps the students and also those with impaired mobility.

The project on Dyche Lane is set to be completed in November later this year while the Monckton Road’s crossing is due for a December finish.